conservation of energy

noun

, Physics.

1. the principle that in a system that does not undergo any force from outside the system, the amount of energy is constant, irrespective of its changes in form.

conservation of energy

noun

1. the principle that the total energy of any isolated system is constant and independent of any changes occurring within the system

conservation of energy

1. A principle stating that the total energy of a closed system remains constant over time, regardless of other possible changes within the system. It is related to the symmetry of time invariance.
2. See also invariance

Word History and Origins

Origin of conservation of energy¹

First recorded in 1850–55

Example Sentences

It was my favorite episode, the one about the law of conservation of energy.

From Literature

This in turn has some important implications for the conservation of energy and momentum.

From Science Daily

Energy Department officials said it has tentatively found that the changes are “economically justified and would result in a significant conservation of energy.”

From Washington Times

Because bipedalism allows for greater conservation of energy, not to mention freeing up our arms to carry tools, some anthropologists believe this behavior contributed to our brain size.

From Salon

Calls for better conservation of energy are also growing in France, like in much of Europe, as the war in Ukraine squeezes supplies of gas and oil.

From New York Times